Who in their junior high and high school days didn't at least own one pair of slip on Vans shoes? These comfortable, long lasting and easy to slip-on shoes are a part of our national heritage. Sitting in homeroom, doodling in pen on the rubber edge of your Vans is possibly the most 80's of memories.

Well, now you can relive those glory days even in some of the retro-80's checkerboard styles with the Vans Classic Slip On Core Classics. These shoes are guaranteed to bring back memories and make your life a whole lot easier. Because let's be honest, who has time for shoelaces? You didn't have time for them back then and you definitely don't have time for them now.

Styles
Vans Classic Slip On Core Classics are so affordable you could easily buy a different style to suit your every mood or one for each day of the week. There is the retro checkerboard in black/white, red/white, pink/black and red/black. For more of a preppy look go for the blue, white or black. There is even a version so white that you could probably hit the skate park in the dark and the cops could still see you.

Materials
These shoes come with classic Vans EVA insole support to help cushion heavy landings when grinding, shredding or just jumping off the roof. They have a cotton drill lining for extra comfort and breathability. The sole is Vulcanized to repel heat and to make it durable. And as always there is the gum rubberized outsole that is a Vans trademark—you could probably even still write in pen on it.

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Well, with sales of his all encompassing skate apparel line booming, Mr. Rob Dyrdek might be getting seriously close to being able to buy the whole world, Dr. Evil style. We all know he at least has his "Fantasy Factory" on MTV where each week the man shows off his toys and how he likes to abuse his staff. (Only in Jest, to be sure! The fights on that show are more staged than the plot of "The Hills.")

In just a few short years, the interlocking D and C for "Dyrdek Collection" has become one of the most sought after logos in the entire clothing industry, to say nothing of skate apparel. To put it in perspective, the Dyrdek Collection's DC has almost become as recognizable as the two GGs were for Gucci in the 1980's. And just as Gucci did in the 1980's, the Dyrdek Collection is also trying to branch out from a previously successful logo into an entire brand filled with fashionable goodies. Because life unfortunately sometimes requires more than just a hooded sweatshirt.

Oh, but DC does make a great hoodie now doesn't it? First is the"Electric Blue Dimensional Fleece Zip Hoodie" (perfect for winter) featuring a totally unique design over the front but the usual Rob Dyrdek quality. No interlocking DC logos here but it somehow still looks like a piece from this skate company.

Now the Dark Gray "Regain Fleece Zip Hoodie" still features the well known logos but this time styled much differently almost as if someone had put a hand-full in a blender and hit puree. Again, this is one warm and stylish hoodie.

While it is never in good taste to generalize about people there is one undeniable trend among those in the Skateboarding community. Not only do they generally love a good session of shredding and grinding at a local skate park but they often times turn to snowboarding during the winter months. Oh yes, and one more thing. They usually love Bob Marley. I mean, who doesn't love *Bob Marley*?

This is where the Matix Clothing Company's Asher Rasta Black Hoodie comes in. Warm enough for the coldest winter yet breathable enough to be worn in the fall or early spring, the Asher Black Hoodie really is a jacket for all seasons. Not only does this hoodie look cool and keep you warm but it also makes a statement for anyone out there who loves to skate, snowboard and rock out to Bob Marley's seminal album "Rebel Music."

The Matix Clothing Company Asher Rasta Black Hoodie has Kangaroo pouch pockets on either side and is fully lined with nylon to help keep you cool. For a textured look and feel the Asher Rasta Black Hoodie has banded cuffs and waist. Why is that important? So many hoodies are loose around the wrist and waist that they make people who may be physically fit look fat. Always remember that wearing loose clothing is not a cover up—it will just make you look overweight.

This hoodie is also 100% machine washable, available only in black with a small red, yellow and green rasta emblem, this hoodie is sure to sell out quickly. So, regardless of where you are or what you are doing, the Asher Rasta Black Hoodie will not only keep you warm it will also express your vast and varied interests.

Emerica has been noticing a "product review" trend lately on YouTube. More specifically skaters making their own personal reviews of skate shoes on the web to let their voices be heard. These reviews are straight from the skaters mouths (literally). They are not sanctioned by companies, and are a clear example of skaters empowering themselves to speak out individually and independently to let there voices be heard. So, Emerica just launched a blog on the Emerica site called Emerica's Review Tube! This blog will seek to collect this information in one place on the Emerica site, via YouTube, for Emerica users to see, get inspired, and create their own personal reviews. It will also promote even greater integration and connection with Emerica, and allows them the opportunity to learn invaluable insights directly from the skaters themselves. Take a minute to check out the blog and for all your Emerica shoes and clothing needs be sure to visit the Zappos Rideshop!

In honor of the Reggae Rising festival in Northern California, Ipath introduces the Reggae Rising Collaboration pack. Reggae Rising is a long-standing reggae festival that brings thousands of fans every July. The pack consists of the Ipath Limited Edition Reed shoe, a commemorative frisbee, an authenticity card and extra rasta laces and is limited to 250 packs total. You can get yours while supplies last HERE from the Zappos Rideshop!

DC is proud to announce the release of Dyrdek Collection from pro skateboarder Rob Dyrdek. Dyrdek’s collection is a first for both himself and the brand, as its premiere athlete designed collection. The Dyrdek Collection includes footwear, apparel and accessories, all which feature signature branding and a custom print. The collection will launch to retail stores beginning October 1, 2009.

The collection was designed to fit perfectly in Dyrdek’s life, with custom fit denim for skateboarding, lightweight zip fleece, T-shirts, hats, wallets, a leather jacket and a new footwear model. A “water” pattern, representing the collection’s theme of “Fantasies Run Deep” is used across the collection as the lead print on t –shirts, fleece, and hats, as well as on interior linings of jackets, accessories, and footwear.

“After nearly 15 years with DC, I am excited to launch my first full collection of footwear,
apparel and accessories,” said Dyrdek. “I wanted the Collection to reflect my life, so I incorporated everything from pieces for skateboarding and everyday wear to aspects of my history, like a completely updated model of my first ever shoe with DC.”

Dyrdek’s latest shoe, the RD1 Mid, sits at the center of the collection and draws design cues from Dyrdek’s first ever shoe with the brand. Dyrdek joined DC Shoes in 1995 and set out to design the first-ever skateboard shoe with an athletic shoe's performance features and look. The result, the Dyrdek1, was the first skateboard shoe to feature protective nylon lace loops. Dyrdek’s signature shoe was met with unprecedented approval by the skateboarding community and sold out in record time.

Fifteen shoes later, the updated RD1 Mid model now comes in two colorways as a mid top with perforated leather and custom lining, but features the same paneling and lace loops from the Dyrdek 1 that revolutionized skateboarding footwear. The code “RD0915AW” is branded into the heel of the shoe, reflecting the original branding on the tongue of Dyrdek’s first shoe,“RD9501AW”, which combined his initials (RD) with the year (‘95), shoe model number (01) and his board sponsor (Alien Workshop).

Be sure to check out all the latest DC gear from the Zappos Rideshop!

DC

It takes a little extra something to stand out front he crowd these days. And in most cases, those who stand out do it fairly effortlessly. One look at Kyle Loza's riding style and the innovation and individuality he's brought to Moto X in the last few years and you instantly realize he's one of those people. Kyle epitomizes what etnies is and they are proud to welcome him to the etnies apparel team! Check out all the lates etnies gear from the Zappos Rideshop!

Emerica is back with another Blueprint collab shoe, the Francis Lo. Blueprint Pro, all-terrain ripper, artist, music aficionado, London resident-call him what you will-Vaughn Alfred Baker has been ruling the UK/European skate scene for quite some time now. For proof, check out his parts in blueprints first broadcast and lost & found videos.
After A round of recent injuries and ups and downs in his personal life, Vaughan is back, better than ever, and amped on the newest Emerica + Blueprint collaboration shoe. Spread some cheer with the Vaughan and get the newest Emerica Blueprint Collab - the Francis Lo from the Zappos Rideshop today!

Zappos Rideshop

Here's one for the ladies! Etnies Girl is loving fashion lately. For etnies Girl this fall is all about fun patterns, pop color, rich textures and clever little details. The etnies Sew Rock Series takes a cue from art school fashionistas and the ever-creative DIYers know for taking trends and making them their own. Check out the girls Fader special edition Sew Rock colorway on the Zappos Rideshop today!

Lakai has added a couple new styles to their "Recycled Program" for Back to School. Introducing the Mercer Recycled and the Carroll Select Recycled. Reducing waste impact is a global responsibility. Lakai has chosen to do their part by applying excess shoe materials that would otherwise be thrown away to selected styles each season. These styles also feature soles comprised of new gum rubber mixed with regrind rubber waste, reducing new material by up to 40%. Expect unique color and material combinations from all of Lakai's eco-friendly Recycled Program shoes. Check out some of the other recycled styles: The Manchester Select, the Koston Select and the MJ-2 Select. New styles available now from the Zappos Rideshop. Breathe!

Zappos Rideshop

The black suede Munition CT Mid is the first installment of a two-part shoe series collaboration between long time DVS rider Chico Brenes and LRG. Designers looked to the early years of Chico's career for inspiration on it's look and feel.

The footbed print is borrowed from Chico's first World Industries pro model graphic, Orange Vendor, introduced in 1992 by artist Mark Mckee. The graphic features a tiny cartoon Paisa wearing a red flannel and selling oranges out of a box. This character is a direct reference to Chico's heritage as a Nicaraguan immigrant. The same flannel pattern used on the graphic is mimicked in both print and texture on the collar of the shoe. The shoe also features custom Chico and LRG branding on the tongue and heel.

To compliment the line, designers also produced signature apparel pieces that tie into the color and graphic themes of the shoes. The Chico x LRG apparel collection includes a textured red flannel New Era, a signature red flannel long sleeve, and graphic T-shirts that feature the same Mark McKee Paisa character found in the footbed of the shoe. Pick your's up today from the Zappos Rideshop!

Ever wondered what it would be like if you removed the padding from a SK8-Hi™? Well the footwear engineering genius' over at Vans have fulfilled your fantasy once again. Introducing the Vans SK8-Hi™ Deconstruct. This shoe combines the existing features and benefits of the SK8-Hi™, but now with a little more steez (and less padding of course). Standard features include an environmentally conscious canvas upper. Triple stitching on the collar and toe box. Traditional rubber outsole with Vans' trademarked Waffle Grip and a clean vulcanized construction. This will most definitely be a hot ticket item for fall, so get em' while they last! Available in 3 colors from the Zappos Rideshop. While you're at it, don't forget to check out the full range of Vans available from Zappos.com - HOLLA!

http://www.zappos.com/vans

Vans SK8-Hi™ "Dressed to Kill" is a killer pair of skating shoes. These shoes feature a Kiss band member graphic that makes these shoes a great tribute to the spirit of Rock and Roll. If you are a skater, a wannabe skater or if you just like cool shoes, then try these on for size.

Vans SK8-Hi™ "Dress to Kill" - The Basics

Vans SK8-Hi™ "Dress to Kill" shoes retail for $69 and come in both men's and women's sizes. They come in men's sizes 3.5 to 13, as well as women's sizes 5 to 12. They weigh in at about 18 ounces and have a shaft height of about 6.5 inches, depending on the size of shoe that you order.

These shoes have a black, white and grey tone palette. This makes them the perfect addition to nearly any wardrobe. They have a high-top design that stars the members of the band Kiss in full character makeup on the sides of the shoe, as well as the logo "Dress to Kill" printed on the side of the shoe's sole.

Dressing to Kill

When you buy a pair of shoes there are many things that you need to think about. Fit is the first thing. A properly fitted shoe will fit snuggly but will not be tight or crumple your toes. Next you will want to look at function. The type of shoe that you buy needs to reflect what you will be using the shoe for. For example, if you will be using the shoe for skateboarding then you will want a shoe that has give in its design so that it flexes, as well as a non-skid sole to prevent slippage from your board.

The final thing that you want to think about when buying a pair of shoes is style. The styling of the shoe needs to fit in with your current wardrobe. This will give you the most styling options when putting together your daily look. Fortunately, the Vans Sk8-Hi™ "Dress to Kill" has a neutral palette, which means that it will look good with nearly anything that you want to pair it with.

Support Macbeth's studio project with Jack's Mannequin and The Dear Jack Foundation at Zappos.com.

One of the most important pieces of safety equipment that you need for skateboarding is a great pair of shoes. The best skating shoes will have a flat sole with good grip. This will keep you from sliding or skidding off your board. You will also want to select a shoe that has been properly fitted to your feet. Shoes that fit the size and shape of your feet will not only improve your stability, but it will also reduce your chances of twisting your ankle or developing blisters. If you are looking for a great skate shoe then consider the Van's SK8-Hi™ Slayer.

Van's SK8-Hi™ Slayer - Specs

The Van's SK8-Hi™ Slayer is a skate shoe that retails for $69.00. It comes in women's sizes 5-12, with half sizes available, in men's sizes 3.5-13, and in youth size 4. It has a medium width and a black, red, white and gold design. The shoe weighs in at about 18 ounces for a men's size 10 and has a shaft height of about 6.5 inches.

The construction of the shoe is impeccable. It has an upper made from a patchwork of canvas, leather and suede. It has an EVA insert that has been die cut and a gum sole.

Working Van's SK8-Hi™ Slayer - Wardrobe Tips

The Van's SK8-Hi™ Slayer is a great shoe that can be easily worked into nearly any casual wardrobe. They coordinate well with jeans and t-shirts, and can also make a great compliment to skater shorts and tanks for summer wear. These are not dress shoes but you can create a funky evening look by pairing these shoes with a more formal outfit, such as a dark pair of slacks, a bold printed T and a sports jacket.

Keeping Your Shoes in Top Condition

When you invest in a good pair of skateboarding shoes it is a good idea to take steps to protect their appearance. Keeping them clean is one step that you can take to keep the color and their general appearance crisp. Obviously when you skate outdoors you are bound to get them dirty. The trick is to allow mud and dirt to dry before brushing them clean. This is a better option than trying to clean mud off of wet shoes. This only embeds the mud into the fibers of the shoes. You can also protect your shoes by spraying them with a Teflon or waterproofing treatment before you first use your shoes. This will help make them water proof and also help them to become more resistant to stains.